Tampakan, South Cotabato – Honoring tradition before development, Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI), in partnership with members of the Indigenous Peoples (IP) community and the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of Tablu, conducted the sacred Damsu ritual on July 6, 2026, ahead of the implementation of the Tablu Road Improvement Project in Barangay Tablu, Tampakan, South Cotabato.
The project was initiated following the formal request of the Barangay Council of Tablu, which appealed for SMI’s assistance in the urgent repair and improvement of the barangay’s main roads. In its request, the BLGU cited the deteriorating condition of the road network, which has become increasingly inaccessible, particularly during bad weather. The poor road conditions have significantly affected the transport of agricultural products, delayed emergency response, and posed safety risks to commuters and schoolchildren.
The barangay also committed to providing full administrative support, on-site assistance, right-of-way coordination, and community participation to ensure the smooth implementation of the project, while proposing a Cash-for-Work component to provide temporary livelihood opportunities for displaced workers and low-income residents.
Before the start of the road rehabilitation works, the Blaan community observed the Damsu, a sacred traditional rite performed to seek guidance, protection, and permission from the ancestral spirits believed to safeguard the mountains and forests. The ceremony featured sacred chants, prayers, traditional songs and dances, and the wearing of colorful native-inspired garments, reflecting the Blaan people’s enduring respect for their culture, traditions, and ancestral beliefs.
For the Blaan community, the ritual is more than a cultural practice—it is a profound expression of respect for their heritage and the natural environment. By participating in the ceremony, SMI reaffirmed its commitment to working hand in hand with Indigenous Peoples, recognizing that responsible development begins with honoring local cultures, traditions, and community values.
Danny Puli, incoming Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Barangay Tablu, underscored the importance of preserving their culture while embracing development.
“Gikan sa among mga ninuno ug katigulangan, kung adunay magsugod og proyekto, kinahanglan gyud kini ritwalan ug pangayuan og pahanugot sa mga tag-iya sa kabukiran pinaagi sa among tradisyon. Kini alang sa safety ug protection sa tanan. Nagpasalamat kami sa among partnership sa SMI, ug hinaut nga magpadayon kini nga panaghiusa alang sa kalambuan sa among tribo.”
Barangay Kagawad Morito Puli likewise expressed his gratitude for the road improvement initiative.
“Kami sa barangay, gusto gyud namo nga ma-develop ang among lugar, labi na ang pagpaayo sa among mga dalan. Dako kaayo ang among pasalamat sa SMI tungod kay pinaagi sa ilang suporta, maayo na ang among kalsada ug dili na kaayo maglisod ang among komunidad sa pagbiyahe. Dako kaayo kini nga tabang para sa tanan.”
The Tablu Road Improvement Project reflects SMI’s continuing commitment to responsible mining by responding to the needs of its host communities and supporting community-led infrastructure initiatives that create lasting social benefits.
Through meaningful partnerships with local government units, Indigenous Peoples, and local stakeholders, SMI continues to help improve access to essential services, strengthen rural connectivity, and promote inclusive and sustainable development—while ensuring that progress is achieved with deep respect for the culture, traditions, and rights of Indigenous Peoples. (30)
